Sheet metal fabrication is a typical process in manufacturing. There are various manufacturing methods to choose from, and depending on your budget, one might be more suitable for your needs. If you are interested in the multiple forms of sheet metal manufacturing, this article will detail a few different techniques used today.
Today there are six standard processes in sheet metal cutting:
- For quick and detailed results, laser cutting is the preferred method of sheet metal assembly. It is generally considered to produce higher quality cuts. If you want custom metal sheet fabrication Batavia IL then chances are the method will involve laser cutting.
- For cheap and basic cuts, mechanical cutting is a good choice. The material is pushed into a fixed blade with a press, cutting the metal down to size. A sheet metal shop might utilize both laser and mechanical cutting depending on the job.
- Often, holes need to be cut into a sheet. This is done to perforate the metal and make it easier to cut with a laser or mechanical cutter. However, this method is usually reserved for large-scale production. For smaller projects, an extra machine to perforate the metal is not necessary.
- If the metal needs to be set in a particular shape, a fabrication shop will bend the metal using a press brake. However, sheet metal is not infinitely pliable, so operators need to know about the metal’s bending properties.
- Depending on the job, the assemblage will be the final or second to the last step. To weld materials together, the metal cannot have a powder coating. If they are being joined with hardware, then the pieces can be coated before assembly.
- Powder coating is applied to protect the metal from corrosion unless the metal is exposed to acidic environments.
Sheet metal is a valuable material for a variety of applications. Consult with a professional today if you are interested in a structure made from sheet metal.
